The Team At Riding The Spectrum
Kate Rodriguez - CEO and Therapeutic Riding Instructor
Kate's love for horses spans 30 years, beginning at age 10 in New Jersey and sparking a lifelong passion for equine connection and care. As both a neurodivergent individual and a parent to a child on the autism spectrum, Kate brings deeply personal insight to her work, creating inclusive, uplifting experiences for riders of all abilities. Her leadership blends empathy, expertise, and a commitment to fostering growth through therapeutic horsemanship.
At Riding The Spectrum, our staff and volunteers embody the values of compassion, collaboration, and lived experience.
Our instructors bring a rich blend of equestrian knowledge, therapeutic insight, and heartfelt connection to every session. Whether they’re beginning their journey or have decades of mastery, each team member is united by a shared commitment to safety, inclusion and respect.
Supporting them is a dynamic network of volunteers whose expertise spans mental health, education, public service, and family advocacy. From licensed therapists and special education professionals to law enforcement officers and parents of neurodivergent children, each brings a unique perspective and heartfelt commitment to creating an inclusive, uplifting environment.
Together, they form a mosaic of wisdom and care that empowers every rider—making our barn more than a therapeutic space, but a home built on trust, resilience, and community.
Riding the Spectrum is a sanctuary of dependability for those who flourish within structure. We understand that routine isn't just a preference—it’s a source of calm, confidence, and connection. That’s why we pride ourselves on being consistently present, showing up with compassion, professionalism, and unwavering care every single day. Our clients know they can rely on us not only to honor their need for predictability, but to create a space where growth is guided by trust and every rhythm is respected. With us, reliability isn’t just a promise—it’s a lived experience.
Kirstin Lawrence - Vice President, Equine Manager and Riding Instructor
With over 50 years of hands-on experience in the equine world, Kirstin began her journey riding as a child, later training horses from the ground up and working at a breeding barn helping to deliver foals. Kirstin brings deep expertise and heartfelt dedication to her work, supporting riders of all ages and abilities. Her compassionate approach and experience with at-risk youth and those facing mental and behavioral health challenges make her a vital force in equine-assisted activities and inclusive horsemanship.
Nina Svele - Riding Instructor
Originally from Norway, Nina began riding and training horses at a young age, later moving to the United States to expand her career in the equine world. She is a highly accomplished trainer in both dressage and jumping, with a well-rounded mastery across all riding disciplines. Nina has extensive experience working with individuals with disabilities, blending her deep knowledge of horsemanship with a compassionate, adaptive approach that empowers riders of all abilities.
